Yesterday was my Day 1 of cycle 2. Each cycle is 21 days.
On day 1 I get Cisplatin, Gemcitibine, and the study drug (which is either a placebo or Avastin). That comes along with a couple bottles of saline, anti nausea meds, and Dexamethesone (steroid but works more like a balancing agent and anti nausea med when given as part of a chemo regimen). Also get Emend on day 1, 2, and 3. That's a tri-pack of some expensive anti nausea med (383 lot the pack).
I don't have to go back to the doc until day 8. That's when I get only the Gemcitibine.
I do have to take anti nausea meds (dexmethazone and zophran) on day 2-4 at home whether I have nausea or not. After that I just take zophran if I have nausea (which periodically I do).
Some of the symptoms I have make me think I am getting the Avastin and not placebo. My nurse practitioner and my study coordinator seem to think so as well. That's a good thing.
They may decide to give me shots to boost my neutrophils on a regular basis. That has to be coordinated with the study though and I will find out Wednesday next week.
Mike.
Ps. Chemo went well. Before I went to the infusion center I stopped at a pizza place next store and ordered and paid for a calzone to be delivered at 1pm. It was huge so I shared it with other patients and offered it to the nurses. There are about 5 places that deliver to the infusion center so I can get variety. Just stop by in the morning before I go, buy it, pay for it, and tell them when to deliver. Doing ok this morning but this will definitely be a hydrate and rest day.
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